A 54-year-old male is diagnosed with peptic ulcer disease. This condition is most likely caused by:
A) hereditary hormonal imbalances with high gastrin levels.
B) breaks in the mucosa and presence of corrosive secretions.
C) decreased vagal activity and vascular engorgement.
D) gastric erosions related to high ammonia levels and bile reflux.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Peptic ulcer disease is caused by breaks in the mucosa of the stomach or duodenum and the presence of corrosive secretions such as acid and pepsin. Risk factors include infection with Helicobacter pylori, NSAID use, smoking, and alcohol consumption. Hereditary hormonal imbalances with high gastrin levels (choice A) can lead to Zollinger-Ellison syndrome, a rare disorder that causes the stomach to produce too much acid and can increase the risk of developing peptic ulcers. Decreased vagal activity and vascular engorgement (choice C) are associated with stress-related mucosal disease, a type of ulcer that occurs in critically ill patients. Gastric erosions related to high ammonia levels and bile reflux (choice D) are more commonly associated with gastritis and gastroesophageal reflux disease, respectively.

A 54-Year-Old Male Is Diagnosed with Peptic Ulcer Disease